Running A Business From Home

23rd October 2018

If you are looking to start up a business, it is likely to be home based, at least in the early days.  Figures suggest that over 60% of businesses start in this way and that there are 2.9m businesses in the UK operating from home.

This blog looks at some of the common questions regarding working from home.

Do I need planning permission?

This will not normally be required if your business is quietly accommodated within your home.  However, permission may be required where, for example, your business venture gives rise to more traffic or causes a disturbance to neighbours.  If in any doubt, you should contact your local council.

Will I have to pay business rates?

You will not be expected to pay business rates if you operate alone from a home office.  But business rates may be levied in certain circumstances, such as if you employ others to work at your home or if you convert your home for business purposes.  Your local council will be able to advise.  If you do need to pay business rates, be sure to check if you are eligible for the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme, which may reduce the amount payable.

I live in rented accommodation; can I run a business from there?

You will need to get your landlord’s permission to start a business, but current regulations mean that landlords cannot deny permission without “reasonable” grounds.

Do I need to tell my mortgage provider?

Yes.  Whilst your mortgage repayments are unlikely to change, your provider should be aware of how your home is being used.

Am I covered by my home insurance?

No.  You should get your insurance provider to amend your existing policy to include business cover.  You should also consider whether public liability and/or professional indemnity insurance are needed.

What about health and safety?

Small businesses with less than five employees do not need a written health and safety policy.  However, you are responsible for your own welfare as well as that of employees and customers entering your home.  You should make sure potential risks are addressed, for example, workstations set at the right height, cable tidies used for trailing wires and so on.

 

Any tips on kitting out a home office?

Think about:

  • A separate PC/laptop – As you get more customer information, contacts etc., you will not want to be sharing your computer with family members/flatmates, especially in light of the new data protection regulations (GDPR).
  • A multi-function printer – A device that can print, photocopy, scan and fax all in one will save space.
  • Broadband – Fast reliable internet connectivity is a must in today’s business environment to engage with others and promote your business, so search around for a good supplier.
  • A separate business phone line is often a good idea to maintain professionalism.

If you are starting out in business and would like tips and advice, then be sure to attend one of our free start-up seminars being held throughout October and November 2018.  Click here for more details.

Disclaimer - All information in this post was correct at time of writing.
Other Blogs
Byron Roberts
26th March 2024 Making Tax Digital for Income Tax coming soon

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax will soon be upon us.   Over the past few years’ rents have been increasing and will continue to increase as inflation remains high. Many landlords will now be affected or will be coming close to the qualifying limits. With April 2026 fast approaching for those with qualifying income…

Amanda Newman
25th March 2024 Finance available for start ups

Did you know that there is finance available for start ups?   Starting in business can be an expensive task and a lot of businesses are not always aware of the funding that is available from the government to help with this.   Where to start The most popular is the government backed start up…

Harriet Sim
25th March 2024 The end of Furnished Holiday Lettings

The recent Budget announcements will bring an end to the tax advantages afforded to the owners of Furnished Holiday Lettings (FHL) and set them apart from the owners of normal residential properties.   At present, qualifying FHL’s provide a number of tax advantages: Unrestricted tax relief for mortgage interest Entitlement to claim capital allowances, including…

Megan Turner
22nd March 2024 Directors’ Responsibilities

What are directors’ responsibilities? As a director, you are legally responsible for running the company. This must be done in line with both the articles of association and Companies Act 2006.   A key role is to ensure that all statutory reporting requirements are met. This includes, but is not limited to: Filing the annual…

Louise Bassett
21st March 2024 Don’t Delay: Farming Equipment and Technology Fund Deadlines

Earlier this week, DEFRA added the closing dates for the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF).   If you’re a farmer, horticulturist, forestry owner or contractor to the any of the aforementioned, and you’re looking to improve productivity, manage slurry or improve animal health and welfare through the use of new technology and equipment, don’t…

Shamus Chaplin
21st March 2024 Removal of Multiple Dwellings Relief for SDLT

On 6th March 2024, the abolition of the Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) relief known as Multiple Dwellings Relief (MDR) was announced. The Reasoning HMRC’s tax reliefs evaluation programme has determined that MDR has not satisfied its original objectives. They have concluded that there have been numerous cases where the relief has been abused and…